The Road Ahead: Traveling from Carol Stream to Atlanta

Are you planning a road trip from Carol Stream, Illinois to Atlanta, Georgia? Whether you’re going to visit family, attend a business meeting, or simply exploring, you’ll need to decide the best route to take and how long it will take you to get there. We’ve rounded up the most popular routes and calculated the driving time for each one so you can plan your journey accordingly.

The Southern Route

If you’re looking for scenic views and a chance to see some of America’s southern charm, then the southern route might be the right choice for you. Take I-57 S and I-24 E to Atlanta and soak up the beauty of Tennessee and Georgia. The distance to cover is approximately 750 miles. The driving time is around 11 hours and 30 minutes, and that’s without any rest stops. We recommend planning plenty of time for breaks during the journey, especially if traveling with kids.

The Eastern Route

One of the most direct routes is to take I-80 E and I-75 S. You’ll traverse Indiana, Ohio, Kentucky, and Tennessee before reaching Georgia. This route covers a distance of approximately 730 miles. The driving time for this route is around 11 hours, but this can vary depending on traffic and weather conditions. If you decide to take this route, we highly recommend stopping in Cincinnati, Ohio, to visit the National Underground Railroad Freedom Center, which honors the heroes of the Underground Railroad.

The Western Route

This option takes you through the Midwest and the South, but you’ll be traveling through countryside and small towns for most of the way. Take I-70 E straight through Indiana, Ohio, West Virginia, and Virginia before joining up with I-85 S in North Carolina. The distance to cover is around 880 miles, and the driving time is approximately 13 to 14 hours. This route offers several stops along the way, including the National Museum of the United States Air Force in Dayton, Ohio, and the Biltmore Estate in Asheville, North Carolina.

The Southwestern Route

Another option is to take I-55 S, I-40 E and I-75 S to Atlanta. This route takes you through Illinois, Missouri, Arkansas, Tennessee, and Georgia. The distance to cover is approximately 860 miles, and the driving time is around 13 hours. We recommend taking a break at Graceland in Memphis, Tennessee, where you can tour the highlights of Elvis Presley's life.

Other Considerations

Before embarking on any road trip, it's essential to plan for any unforeseen circumstances that may arise so that you can have a safe and enjoyable journey. Make sure to check the weather forecast, fill up your gas tank, and confirm that your car is in good condition. We recommend scheduling rest stops every few hours, so you can stretch your legs, rest your eyes, and grab a bite to eat.

Whatever route you choose, you're sure to have an exciting journey ahead. There are many attractions and beautiful sights to behold along the way, so plan accordingly, stay safe, and enjoy your time on the road!